Cyanovirin conjugates and matrix-anchored cyanovirin and related compositions and methods of use

Abstract

The present invention provides, among other things, methods of removing virus from a sample, a composition comprising a solid support matrix to which is attached a cyanovirin, a conjugate comprising a cyanovirin coupled to at least one effector component, a composition comprising such a conjugate, methods of inhibiting prophylactically or therapeutically a viral infection of a host, and a matrix-anchored anti-cyanovirin antibody.

1. A method of inhibiting a viral infection of a host, which method comprises administering to said host a composition comprising an antiviral effective amount of a conjugate comprising an isolated and purified cyanovirin protein consisting of an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein said cyanovirin protein binds to a virus envelope glycoprotein, and wherein said cyanovirin protein is conjugated to at least one effector component selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol, dextran, albumin, and a toxin, whereupon administration of said antiviral effective amount of said composition, said viral infection is inhibited.